Adds Despite the Minister’s reported comments to the BBC… As Nevin has noted in the comments below, the NI Commissioner for Public Appointments’ review of the appointment of the interim Non-Executive Directors is available online. From the review [pdf file]

My objective in reviewing the Appointment of Interim Non-Executive Directors to NIW was to evaluate whether the principles of my Code had been applied. Having given the Department an exception to my Code of Practice for Ministerial Public Appointments, this exception did not negate the principles being applied.

Having obtained the available documentation and information from the Department my office undertook this review. Unfortunately I found myself in a position were I was unable to form a view on whether the process was compliant with the principles of my Code as the record-keeping was so sparse and had so many gaps. Therefore the only firm conclusion I can reach is that paragraph 3.31 of my Code of Practice for Ministerial Appointments – contemporaneous records of all assessment procedures, deliberations and outcomes must be kept – has not been complied with.

The Minister has been made aware of my findings and has acknowledged my concern admitting that the process should have been handled better. Due to my review of the process the Minister assured me that lessons have been learned and has asked his officials to ensure that such deficiencies are eliminated in future competitions. [added emphasis throughout]